Have your say on Council’s ‘Thematic Environmental History’ Project
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Published on 31 August 2022
Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting residents to provide feedback on the draft Thematic Environmental History report.
A Thematic Environmental History is a strategic tool that helps understand the land use history and development of a local government area.
The Thematic Environmental History will largely be drawn from published secondary sources such as the legacy heritage studies (Shire of Kyneton Conservation (Heritage) Study 1990 and Macedon Ranges Cultural Heritage and Landscape Study 1994), books published by the historical societies, and pamphlets. Some readily available online material will also be used such as digitised photos and historic newspapers. The various volunteer heritage groups are also assisting with the project.
It is anticipated that the project will enrich our knowledge of Macedon Range’s unique and special history and historic themes that have played an important role in the development of the municipality over the last two centuries.
The draft report covers key themes such as how the environment was shaped (i.e. climate, geology, tracing the emergence of local flora and fauna, etc.), original inhabitants of the Macedon Ranges, people migration and settlement, the progression of transport and communications, the development of industry and farming, management of natural resources, governance and community.
Council’s Director Planning and Environment Rebecca Stockfeld said this important piece of work will be used to guide heritage protection (Heritage Overlays) under the Planning and Environment Act, and will also establish the context of Aboriginal and natural heritage values of the Macedon Ranges.
“It will also assist us with prioritising heritage protection work in the future under Council’s next heritage strategy which is coming up for review, so that areas requiring protection are adequately represented,” she said.
The draft Thematic Environmental History is available for public comment until 23 September 2022.
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